When Notre Dame extended a scholarship offer to Deion Walker earlier this month, the Irish weren't exactly first to the punch. In fact, Walker, a 6-foot-4, 186-pound wide receiver from Christchurch, Va., had collected nearly 45 offers before receiving the one from Notre Dame.

But, the timing of Notre Dame's offer shouldn't have an effect on Walker when the time comes to make his college choice.

"I think the offer came on Aug. 1 when I talked to coach (Charlie) Weis and he said he wanted to give me a scholarship," said the 5-star prospect. "Notre Dame was always in it, it just mattered if they were going to offer or not."

Walker remained in contact with Irish assistant coach Ron Powlus and made a recent unofficial visit to South Bend. Since receiving the offer he's worked hard to learn more about what Notre Dame has to offer. He likes what he sees on and off the field, but his concerns about the environment in South Bend led him to pick up the phone and call a couple of current Irish players.